If you want to get into the world of PC streaming – look no further.
Our team of experts here at Overclockers UK has created this handy guide on how to start PC streaming. We’ve included our top tips for hardware, and peripherals, as well as some incredible pre-built systems that are perfect to start your streaming career.
Quality Content Creation Needs High-End Hardware
Without compatible, quality hardware, you won’t be able to create eye-catching and engaging content for your audience.
Most recording and streaming programs require a lot of processing power, along with your GPU’s support to play the game of your choice. Having hardware that can handle gaming, recording, and a multitude of others tasks simultaneously is crucial for PC streaming.
Thankfully, the latest generation of PC hardware is equipped with intelligent algorithms, such as workload prioritisation and management, AI image rendering, and smooth refresh rates for superior FPS and performance, even in the latest AAA titles.
For a more in-depth look at our recommendations for hardware, why not check out our dedicated blog post?
For a more in-depth look at our hardware recommendations, why not check out our dedicated post about the best PCs for streaming?
Our Top Ten Tips for PC Streaming
For those thinking about starting PC streaming, we’ve compiled our top ten tips for you to take a look at!
- Be Yourself
- Be consistent – create a streaming schedule
- Interact with your viewers
- Don’t focus on the view count
- Be persistent – don’t give up!
- Stream games you enjoy playing
- Invite your friends to join you
- Setup ways for your viewers to interact with your stream
- Share on social media
- Have fun!
Our Top PCs for Streaming
With such a huge range of pre-built gaming PCs on offer, tailored to suit any budget, and each packed with the latest and greatest gaming hardware – I’ve selected some of my favourites that are perfect for content creation and gaming.
Refract Gaming Celeste Pre-Built PC
- Pre-built gaming PC
- Designed for mid-range gaming and streaming
- AMD Ryzen 7 7700X CPU and NVIDIA RTX 4070
- 32GB DDR5 RAM
- 1TB M.2 SSD
- Integrated RGB lighting
OcUK Gaming Katana Configurable PC
- Configurable gaming PC
- Customise base hardware specification
- Intel Core i7 14700KF CPU and NVIDIA RTX 4070 Ti Super
- Up to 32GB DDR5 RAM
- Optional secondary SSD
OcUK Gaming Sabre Configurable PC
- Configurable base hardware spec
- As standard includes Intel Core i7 13700F CPU and NVIDIA RTX 4070 Super
- 32GB DDR5 RAM
- Optional M.2 and 2.5” SSDs
Dedicated Streaming Software
To unlock the full potential of your hardware and broadcast your incredible gaming skills, you need dedicated streaming software.
There are many available for free online, but the most popular ones used by content creators include:
OBS
OBS or Open Broadcasting Software is a free software used for video recording and live streaming. It is compatible with a variety of popular platforms including Twitch and YouTube.
Streamlabs OBS
Streamlabs OBS is another free recording and live streaming software that features pro-overlays, 46 apps, and much more, to offer users more customisation options for their streams and videos.
Streamlabs OBS is compatible with a variety of platforms, including Twitch and YouTube.
NVIDIA GeForce Now, PlayStation Now, or XBOX Cloud Gaming Service?
To enhance your streaming performance even further there are three major subscription-based services that unlock thousands of games and even next-generation technology.
NVIDIA GeForce Now
Ever wanted to take advantage of intelligent NVIDIA technology?
NVIDIA GeForce Now is the cloud-based gaming service that transforms your device into the gaming PC of your dreams. Compatible with over a thousand of the latest titles, GeForce Now connects to your game library so you can stream all your favourite games in stunning cinematic quality.
Want to read more about NVIDIA GeForce Now and how it can level up both your gaming and streaming performance? Take a look at our blog post.
PlayStation Now
PlayStation Now is split into three subscription services.
- Level One: Similar to PlayStation Plus
- Level Two: Has the same benefits as level one, along with access to PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5 games
- Level Three: Has the same benefits as levels one and two, but also classic PlayStation 1 to 3 and PSP games.
XBOX Cloud Gaming
XBOX Cloud Gaming is a subscription-based service, which for £12.99 a month, grants you access to thousands of games.
This is ideal for those who want to play both PC and XBOX exclusive games, and want to be able to play games immediately on release day.
Create the Perfect Streaming Set Up
The perfect streaming setup is incomplete without high-end peripherals and accessories.
ASUS K1 Keyboard and M3 Mouse Gaming Bundle
- Gaming bundle
- ASUS K1 keyboard and M3 mouse
Streamplify MIC
- Cardioid microphone
- Integrated RGB lighting with 8 different effects
- Fully adjustable microphone arm and shock mount included
- Quick mute function
Streamplify CAM
- 2.0 megapixel webcam
- Full HD 1080p resolution
- Clip compatible with laptops, monitors and much more
- Plug and play – no additional drivers required
Streamplify HUB Deck 5
- Five port USB hub
- 4 x USB 3.0
- 1 x 8SB 2.0A
- Included cable clip
- RGB lighting
Streamplify LIGHT 14’’ Ring Light
- 14” ring light
- 10 different brightness levels and 4 colour temperatures
- Includes a smartphone holder, two camera mounts, and a two-in-one tripod selfie stick
Overclockers UK Academy
If you are looking for advice on how to create the perfect streaming set-up, why not check out our dedicated video from our Overclockers UK Academy?
On a final note, for those looking for advice on PC streaming, Luke_Boogie, one of the six winners of the 2022 LGBTQ Streamer Rising Star Award at the Gayming Awards, has said;
‘The only advice I’d give to anyone looking to get into streaming is to try it. Have some fun with it. Be yourself, the worst thing you can do is change who you are, or you’ll not have fun. If you just go in, calmed down, and do what feels natural to you, you’ll enjoy it, and it’ll be a good time for you and your audience’.
Not answered your streaming questions in this article? Head over to the Overclockers UK Ultimate Collection of Streaming Guides – we’ve pulled together every blog we’ve written about streaming and put them in one easy to access place. May your questions be answered there.
Share Your Channel With Us!
If you have any tips for new PC streamers, share them in the comment section below! Plus, feel free to share your channel name with us! We’re always looking for new content creators to watch and support!
*Prices correct at time of writing and PC specs are subject to change.
- 6 min read
Ruth Rowley
Author
Ruth has been with Overclockers UK for over a year and has gone on to write about everything ranging from in-depth hardware guides to monthly game releases.
Outside of writing blog posts, she can be found wrapped in a blanket with her black cat, engrossed in a book or playing life-simulation games such as The Sims, Stardew Valley, and Animal Crossing.
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